School is back in session and that means getting back into a routine. For children with autism, any change in routine can be extremely rough! Though we have a 504 plan in place , a new teacher means a new routine. We have a ton of calming techniques that we have implemented in school, but one thing we have been debating on whether or not to allow her to use fidget spinners.
Unless you have been living under a rock for the last year, you have probably heard of fidget spinners. They are the hugest rage with kids They have become so popular that kids with and without focusing issues are using and collecting them. Fidget spinners are place between your thumb and fore finger. The (you guessed it) they spin!
When it comes to any resource we implement into our children’s routines and sensory diets, we research as much as we can! Thankfully, our friend Claire Adams has done a ton of research for us when it comes to fidget spinners! While we make our decision to “Spin or Not to Spin”, here is Claire’s research on fidget spinners!
Fidget Spinners: A Few Things You Should Know About Them
Fidget spinners took over school playgrounds and the office. Both kids and adults love playing with them. The spinner fidget toys were originally invented to help children with autism develop their motor skills and focus.
Are these toys really that great or are they just another distraction and a fad that will go away? Let’s find out together.
The Drawbacks to Fidget Spinners
Not all children are the same
Some kids might need to use these fidgets to be able to concentrate better, and there’s nothing wrong about that. Children who have a hard time concentrating and sitting long enough to participate in lessons might find fidget spinners to be useful.
As you probably already know, not all kids are the same. Not every child needs the same amount of sensory input to be successful. There’s a big chance that your kid will start using it just like a toy and a distraction. The last thing you want is your child to be distracted in class.
Schools are banning fidget spinners
Many schools are banning these toys because they see them as distractions, but that’s not the end of it. Kids love banned things. That’s why they’re trying to hide them or find other ways to get around the rules. Naturally, this leads to even more distraction, and it causes children not to focus at all or not to learn in school.
If you don’t have any other ideas on how to get your kid to concentrate and focus, don’t immediately jump on the bandwagon and buy a fidget spinner. Talk with those who have an enormous amount of experience like the teachers who provide exceptional childcare in Chermside, and they will help you see that there are many interesting and better ways to get your little one to be a productive and happy person.
Choking hazard
This year’s must-have toy, the fidget spinner, is made of small parts. If it breaks down, there’s a big chance that your kid will try to put it in the mouth. There’s another important thing about these spinners. Spinners that are produced everywhere. They usually don’t come with instructions or any information about which company produced them. This means your little one’s favorite toy may be made of hazardous materials. Giving your child a toxic toy is not something that any of us want to do.
The Benefits of Fidget Spinners
Social activity
Even though fidget spinners can be a distraction, kids just love being ‘’in’’ on something. They like to be a part of something that’s going on and something that involves their friends. Like it or not, fidget spinners are incredibly popular right now, and all the kids have them. Choosing the right childcare and letting your child play with other kids will help them bond with their peers.
Focus
If your child has a problem with anxiety or ADHD, and if your child is always biting nails or scratching their skin, then buying a fidget spinner might not be such a bad idea. Fidgeting will help your child focus and pay attention to the surroundings. Since not all children are the same, try giving the spinner a test ride. See how your child reacts to it before deciding that this toy is a magical cure.
Visual stimulation
Fidget spinners are predictable and that’s exactly what our eyes like. They’re calming to the eye. When situations spin out of control (pun intended), taking a quick look at the spinner can help your child find peace and security in a predictable object.
Color also plays an important part. A brightly colored spinner may actually increase their anxiety. If it’s white or pale blue, for example, then it might lower it.
To spin or not to spin?
Ultimately, it’s your and your kid’s choice. No one can tell you whether this toy is perfect for your little prince or princess. When it comes to your child’s play, there are definitely many better options out there. You certainly won’t spark your child’s creativity and imagination with a fidget spinner. Let them play, and encourage them to be active and to communicate with other children.
| About The Author:
Claire is a personal and professional development expert who believes that a positive attitude is one of the keys to success. You can find her online writing and giving tips about lifestyle and development as a regular contributor to highstylife.com. You can find her on Facebook and Twitter as well! |